Abnormal Psychology Specialization

This specialization provides an introduction to the study of abnormal psychology, with a survey of various mental health concerns through both a modern and historical lens. It concludes with an opportunity to practice effecting behavioral change in your own life through an overview of scientifically-supported treatment strategies. The specialization is not intended to be a replacement for therapy, nor a replacement for formal psychiatric training, but - through a series of lectures, readings, and reflective projects - you will learn many of the basic tenets of how diagnosis and treatment have been applied throughout the existence of the discipline of psychology, how to empathically respond to people in distress, and some basic tools to make desired changes in your own life.
WHAT YOU WILL LEARN

• An intro level understanding of basic tenets of psychopathology, including how to identify indications of distress
• Empathic approaches to engaging with individuals in distress and evidence-based strategies for supporting yourself and others
• An awareness of historical precedent in the discipline of mental health and how that history affects modern-day perceptions of psychopathology
• An intro level understanding of symptomatology, intervention strategies, and relevant contextual factors of broad experiences of psychopathology.